tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91810680724000932902024-03-13T23:06:13.906-05:00The Convenient BeautyJoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.comBlogger332125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-52501013309784887842015-01-03T08:00:00.000-06:002015-01-03T22:02:58.882-06:00Review: Dior 5-color Eyeshadow Palette in 734 Grege<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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After all those years delving into the world of beautiful makeup, Dior still holds a special place in my heart. My favorite eyeshadows of all time are still their 5-color quints. I'm late in the game for Dior 5-color eyeshadow in 734 Grege ($60 for 0.21 oz). It was released a couple of years back and creating quite a buzz among the neutral eyeshadow wearers. I had my eyeshadow-addict radar on alert but the color theme wasn't appealing to me. Until <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpgnL8ZH7wY">this video</a> by TiffanyD. As it always happens, you watch/read a beauty video/blog post, then you have to have something. hehehe<br />
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From left to right clock-wise, you'll have a satin light tan, a shimmery frosty white, a satin medium grey, a almost matte deep plumy brown and a satin silvery mauve in the center. These shades blend so easily together and complement each other really well. That's a big thumb-up for Dior 5-color palettes in general. You can use 3 shades in diagonal line or 3 shades along the side of the square, or 4 or all colors at once. It will cover a day time look to a smoldering smokey look.<br />
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<i>A closer look</i></div>
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Dior 5-color palette Grege has the finish that leans more toward traditional Dior like <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-in-beige.html#.VKcQpBzTfEd">Beige Massai</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-stylish.html">Stylish Move</a>, i.e. subtle satin finish (my favorite eyeshadow finish!). So if you're like me or you have more mature eyelids, you might prefer this type of palette over the new generation of pearl finish Dior has perused in recent years. Not that the pearl finish isn't pretty (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/11/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-rosy-tan.html">Rosy Tan</a>, for example, is deservingly popular). It becomes plainly boring after overly made by so many brands for so long. There's only one pearly shade in Grege, the white. Good enough for me because this white is soft, leaving a sheen rather than frost on the skin. </div>
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<i>Direct sunlight</i></div>
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Just like the other Dior quints I own (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-stylish.html">Stylish Move</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/07/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-sunset.html">Sunset Cafe</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/06/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-in-rosy.html">Rosy Nude</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/11/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-rosy-tan.html">Rosy Tan</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-in-beige.html#.VKcOORzTfEc">Beige Massai</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/05/sultry-wearable-smokey-eye-dior-5-color.html#.VKcPBBzTfEc">Smokey Design</a>), Grege has a lovely buttery smooth texture but not overly so. It glides on the skin seamlessly without any fall-outs. It also layer very nicely on the skin for different intensities. </div>
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All but the silvery silvery mauve in the center has excellent color payoff, especially the plumy brown. What a shame because I love the center shade. It's has a perfect balance of mauve, silver, and a hint of plum. This is one of those colors that brighten up your eyes. These are soft colors so it might not show up well on deeper skintone. I would recommend you tanner ladies use this palette wet or on top of an opaque eyeshadow base or a cream eyeshadow. </div>
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<i>The center shade is the farthest right. </i></div>
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Although pretty, Dior 5-color palette Grege isn't without flaws. My first complain is the lack of pigment of the center shade. The second complain is the wearing of this palette in general. I usually got solid 8-10 hours of staying-put eye makeup with Dior quints. Grege looks good for 6 hours only, and that center shade last about 2 hours (on top of a standard eye primer). I can deal with sheer colors but sheerness and short-wearing are kind of unforgiving. </div>
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The reason Grege still has a spot in my collection is due to its versatility. It's not too cool not too warm not too neutral nor too shimmery nor too plain. Just a perfect balance of everything. </div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. A staple for neutral eyemakeup wearers. Not the best quality from Dior. I still highly recommend you check it out. The lovely color coordination and luxurious powder finishes might help you to overlook the drawbacks. </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-5540677846864873292014-12-21T08:00:00.000-06:002014-12-21T08:00:04.013-06:00Review: Tom Ford Lips and Boys - Giacomo, Cary, Didier<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As Tom Ford usually does to us makeup fanatics, he somehow convinced me to order sight unseen more than one limited edition lipsticks from the Lips and Boys collection. And I usually just go one lipstick at a time. On a more self-forgiving note, this collection contains 50 (FIFTY) shades so 7 doesn't sound that bad. I based my decisions mostly on my previous experience with his lipsticks, stock images, and some unconfirmed information on repromoted shades. In other words, this haul was a leap of faith in Tom Ford. And boy, he does not disappoint.<br />
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The most frequently asked questions I've noticed is how mini these lipsticks are. Priced at $32 each for 0.7 oz compared to a full-size version at $50 for 0.1 oz, they are actually less expensive. Because the price is friendlier, I image they will be more appealing to a larger group of customers. As someone who mainly just touches-up lip makeup, I really appreciate a lighter version to carry around. Also, I love the skinnier bullets of the minis for precise application.<br />
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The first three shades that arrived are Giacomo, Cary (Casablanca in permanent range), Didier. It's funny to refer to a lipstick as <i>he</i>. Anyway.<br />
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<b>Giacomo</b> is a satin bright deep rose. The shimmer is so fine that it's only visible under direct sunlight It's 70s I tell you. Very Tom Ford! He's bright yet still muted enough for daily look. I love to sport him as a statement lips with a very natural complexion. Giacomo is the most exotic pink of the three, in my opinion. Coincidently his names sounds exotic eh?<br />
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<b>Cary</b> is a more redden plum version of Collin (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/tom-ford-private-blend-lipstick-indian.html">Indian Rose</a>). They are very similar in tone. Cary doesn't have any shimmer yet it still has some sheen finish. Although the muted plum undertone makes it a safe my-lip-but-better choice, I think he adds interesting plum touch to the lips. </div>
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<b>Didier</b> is a satin deep plum rose with ultra fine fuchsia shimmer. This particular shimmer reminds me of that in Tom Ford Ravish and Wicked blushes. It's edgy and lovely! Didier is the most moisturizing of the bunch. He's sheerer and brighter on my lips than in the tube. But by no mean it's a sheer lipstick. </div>
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<i>Giacomo is the most rosy. Cary has the most brown. Didier has the most plum with fuchsia tint.</i> </div>
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All three shades wear well for 5 hours, surviving lunch and many glasses of water. They moisturize my lips and feel so comfortable. In fact, after these lippies were washed out down to a stain, they still have the same undertone and look pretty. I do need a lip balm as usual but Tom Form's creamy lipsticks don't dry out my lips. This quality is consistent across his range. In this case, I slightly prefer the hydrating performance of Didier to the other two, although all three deliver the Tom Ford quality that I want. <br />
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Now it's time for some lipswatches.<br />
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<i>Giacomo</i></div>
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<i>Cary</i></div>
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<i>Didier</i></div>
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<i>See how Didier is considerably deeper in the tube?</i></div>
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Were you able to resist or wait for counter swatching? What did you pick up? How do you like these boys?</div>
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Peter, Alasdhair, Addison and Richard are on the way. I hope to get the review early enough before they're once again sold out. </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-51592998277246553272014-12-19T13:00:00.000-06:002015-01-03T22:17:59.329-06:00Wedding makeup: Collaboration with Lover.ly <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Weddings are special. The energy of the couple and the excitement (and craziness) that friends and family bring into the event make it one of the most cherished memories of life, don't you think? When <a href="http://lover.ly/">lover.ly</a>, an online one stop shopping and wedding planning site invites me to style their wedding dress, I thought this would be a great way to share my love and hopefully to help some of my bride-to-be readers. </div>
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<a href="http://Lover.ly/">Lover.ly</a> is designed for the modern couples who want to take the wedding planning in their hands. They own every step of the planning from choosing the right bridal gown, flower arrangement to putting together a delicious menu to staying on the budget. You can find great wedding inspiration, save your ideas and shop with lover.ly. Think about pinterest in an interactive platform! </div>
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Today, I'd like to share my picks from <a href="http://lover.ly/shop/dresses/bride/">lover.ly's stunning bridal gown collections</a> and how I would style the makeup. </div>
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<b>Look 1: Classic Chic</b></div>
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This elegant and luxurious <a href="http://lover.ly/shop/dresses/monique-lhuillier/poet/images/243818/">Monique Lhuillier's Poet dress</a> has a silk white double layered Chantilly lace with embellished bateau neck and back. I love the contrast and complement between the simple straight line cut that hugs the body lightly and the delicate floral lace on the chest. <i>Chic. Timeless. Feminine.</i> The bride who choose this gown, I image, is quietly confident and will love an understated chic wedding. </div>
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<b>The makeup</b><br />
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To keep it chic yet modern and interesting, I opt for soft smokey rosy-tinted eyes (Urban Decay Naked palette 3 layering on top of (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/12/review-laura-mercier-mini-caviar-stick.html">Laura Mercier caviar stick Cocoa</a>) paired with nude pink lips (Nars Audacious lipstick in Raquel is perfect!) and a glowly flawless complexion. Since there will be lots of tears, kisses, eating, drink, dancing involved and many photos taken, the makeup should have waterproof formula and be applied in layers. I love Dior Star Fluid foundation and concealer to create flawless skin. I would first layer<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/edward-bess-compact-rouge-in-love.html"> Edward Bess Compact Rouge in Love Affair</a> and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/01/edward-bess-all-over-seduction-in.html">All Over Seduction in Sunlight</a> on the cheeks, then finish off with <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-tom-ford-cheek-color-02-frantic.html">Tom Ford blush in Frantic Pink</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_classic_chic/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143380287" target="_blank"><img alt="lover.ly Classic Chic" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/atXwuFZ2trFqohqEF2cpA/cid/143380287/id/aBRC2MOH5BGDdxBv7EzHKw/size/c600x438.jpg" height="438" title="lover.ly Classic Chic" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_classic_chic/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143380287" target="_blank">lover.ly Classic Chic</a> by <a href="http://convenientbeaut.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">convenientbeaut</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/powder_blush/shop?query=powder+blush" target="_blank">powder blush</a></small></div>
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<b>Look 2: Modern Princess</b><br />
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<a href="http://lover.ly/shop/dresses/monique-lhuillier/sentimental/images/243795/">Monique Lhuillier's Sentimental dress</a> can be any girl's dream. It has a classic and universally flattery A-line blended with trumpet silhouette. Also covered in silk white Chantilly lace, Sentimental brings out our inner princess and adds extravagant air to the bride. I'm sure a Sentimental bride feels beautiful inside out. She knows that she's loved. And she's not afraid of being drowned in an ultimate luxurious wedding gown.<br />
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<b>The makeup</b><br />
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This stunning Monique Lhuillier number is such a statement piece. I want the makeup to complement the dress without either being overwhelmed by the beautiful lace or competing with it. So I focus on a pair of lustrous bright pink lips (YSL Rouge Pur Couture) and healthy glowly flush of pink on the cheeks using <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-chanel-cream-blush-65-affinite.html">Chanel cream blush in Affinite</a> and Becca Skin Shimmering Perfector in Moonstone. The key here is to keep the complexion very very natural and avoid big dolly eyelashes (I love <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/dior-mascaras-diorshow-diorshow-iconic.html#.VJMTFzANAA">Diorshow Iconic Waterproof Mascara</a>). Since Chantecaille Future Skin cream foundation offers this natural effect, I need a more heavy duty concealer like Bobbi Brown creamy concealer kit to cover blemishes (and only where needed).<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_modern_princess/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143381957" target="_blank"><img alt="lover.ly Modern Princess" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/SuzgNyKwHlFeQ014uxPxjA/cid/143381957/id/xterFcSH5BGWsukYZFZllw/size/c600x449.jpg" height="449" title="lover.ly Modern Princess" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_modern_princess/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143381957" target="_blank">lover.ly Modern Princess</a> by <a href="http://convenientbeaut.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">convenientbeaut</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/yellow_concealer/shop?query=yellow+concealer" target="_blank">yellow concealer</a></small></div>
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<b>Look 3: Undone beach beauty</b><br />
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If you're having a more casual relaxed wedding like on the beach, <a href="http://lover.ly/shop/dresses/coren-moore/zoe/images/229453/">Coren Moore's Zoe dress</a> will be a perfect candidate. It features a sweetheart neck with full ruched bodice. Skirt is fitted through the hips with asymmetrical layers. Interior features hand sewn corset that provides form and support for the body. I thought this Coren Moore's number looks effortlessly elegant and comfortable.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtLRbBijwt8/VJBeYaM_wdI/AAAAAAAAFGs/UYLDjdBV7so/s1600/18052_615bridal_1344544045_287.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtLRbBijwt8/VJBeYaM_wdI/AAAAAAAAFGs/UYLDjdBV7so/s1600/18052_615bridal_1344544045_287.jpeg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<b>The makeup</b><br />
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For this flowy number, I want to create a relaxed and undone look where a blushing golden bronze complexion takes the center stage. Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge Pale Pink can be used on both cheeks and lips to break the bronze on bronze cliche. To complete this look, I would use a neutral gold eyeshadow palette such as Burberry Golden No 25. The eyes would blend in with the bronze/golden theme yet neutral enough to keep the whole look natural and relaxing. The finishing touch would be adding some glow on the cheeks (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/highlighter-thebalm-mary-lou-manizer.html#.VJMSWzANAA">theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer</a>) and lips and a bit of mascara.<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_beach_beauty/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143423273" target="_blank"><img alt="lover.ly Beach Beauty" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/Oq5GPFuntUQ20wH4ckxJDw/cid/143423273/id/-lBYRMSH5BGwghu_Jh98cQ/size/c600x381.jpg" height="381" title="lover.ly Beach Beauty" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_beach_beauty/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143423273" target="_blank">lover.ly Beach Beauty</a> by <a href="http://convenientbeaut.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">convenientbeaut</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/burberry_eyeshadow/shop?brand=Burberry&category_id=196" target="_blank">burberry eyeshadow</a></small></div>
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<b>Look 4: Grown-up girly</b><br />
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Ah, another masterpiece from Monique Lhuilier. I LOVE that the Grecian full dress adorned by the Chantilly lace sleeves and the silk chiffon illusion neckline! This <a href="http://lover.ly/shop/dresses/monique-lhuillier/analise/images/926101/">Monique Lhuillier's Analise </a>gown is feminine, romantic, chic and alluring all at the same. It accentuates the waist line without a bodice making it more comfortable yet modern.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32YXG8YH3Og/VJBeYlNE3WI/AAAAAAAAFGo/AhlbdkgAIpU/s1600/19729_monique-lhuillier--analise-1394221496-975.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32YXG8YH3Og/VJBeYlNE3WI/AAAAAAAAFGo/AhlbdkgAIpU/s1600/19729_monique-lhuillier--analise-1394221496-975.jpeg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
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<b>The makeup</b><br />
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Since Analise dress radiates such an elfin vibe, I want a grown-up girly look to complement it. All starts with a natural canvas with Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick and Nars Creamy Concealer. Urban Decay Optical Blurring brush is my favorite to blend out stick foundation. I opted for a neutral light pink lips (Nars Audacious lipstick in Anita) and bit of contouring using Urban Decay Naked Flush (contour/highlight/blush palette). Now, we often think of a pink eyeshadow palette as a must for a girly look. I myself never fancy rocking pink eyeshadows. They don't look good on me and I thought that would be predictable. Instead, I would use <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-tom-ford-eye-color-quad-orchid.html">Tom Ford eyecolor quad in Orchid Haze</a>. It features a champagne, a warm taupe, a pinky plump and a burgundy brown. You would still get that soft pink hazy effect without overly pinking everything if that makes sense.<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_grown-up_girly/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143424562" target="_blank"><img alt="lover.ly Grown-up Girly" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/sl8QhN0YSXhy3sKppdgPQ/cid/143424562/id/CBrciMSH5BGUMpi_Jh98cQ/size/c600x431.jpg" height="431" title="lover.ly Grown-up Girly" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lover.ly_grown-up_girly/set?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste&id=143424562" target="_blank">lover.ly Grown-up Girly</a> by <a href="http://convenientbeaut.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4737746&.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">convenientbeaut</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/yves_saint_laurent/shop?brand=Yves+Saint+Laurent" target="_blank">Yves Saint Laurent</a></small></div>
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There you have it. What is your favorite look? How will you style these dresses?<br />
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Hope you have fun with this post and don't forget to check out <a href="http://lover.ly/">lover.ly</a>!<br />
<br />
Joanne x<br />
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<i>This is not a sponsored post. </i></div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-3778950349893604642014-12-11T22:11:00.000-06:002014-12-11T22:11:38.973-06:00Review: Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Eye Color Set - Holiday 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqzvJqBN22Y/VIpJYl_AcCI/AAAAAAAAFFk/oub2llEurpw/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqzvJqBN22Y/VIpJYl_AcCI/AAAAAAAAFFk/oub2llEurpw/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colors have been on my wish list for a while. For some reason, I never got around to grab any of them. So when the brand released a limited edition set of 6 mini eyecolor sticks, I jumped at the opportunities. </div>
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The set ($55 for 6 sticks of 0.03 oz/1 g each) contains Rosegold, Amethyst, Moonlight, Copper, Khai and Cocoa. They are all lovely and beautiful. I love how these colors work well together among themselves and are neutral enough to compliment bolder colors in my stash.<br />
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- Rosegold: a shimmery warm champagne. It matches my warm skintone NC20-25 perfectly, neither too warm nor too bright. I love it on its own as a wash of color that will radiate a subtle sheen.<br />
- Amethyst: a shimmery taupy plum, also a great lid color. It looks pretty on by itself or as a base color for your mauve, plump or taupe laid on top.<br />
- Moonlight: a highly shimmery cool taupe. It's the most shimmery of the bunch and a great highlighter. I love to apply it in the inner corners of my eyes then blend it out to soften the metallic finish for a more natural result.<br />
- Copper: a shimmery warm peach.<br />
- Khaki: a satin green khaki that looks pretty as a sheer wash of color or when built up for intensity. I love it for a soft smokey eye looks, something more interesting than a ever-predictable black/grey theme.<br />
- Cocoa: a satin deep brown that works well as a crease color and an eyeliner. It ain't just another brown. It brings depth and definition to the eyes without looking too warm nor too cool.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXVTOoZJd1I/VIpJVPgSdII/AAAAAAAAFFM/EA2OGSSXBCU/s1600/IMG_7013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXVTOoZJd1I/VIpJVPgSdII/AAAAAAAAFFM/EA2OGSSXBCU/s1600/IMG_7013.JPG" height="481" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMXTeSkDUKg/VIpJVrVs8jI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/bh0XxWa-kJw/s1600/IMG_7019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMXTeSkDUKg/VIpJVrVs8jI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/bh0XxWa-kJw/s1600/IMG_7019.JPG" height="459" width="640" /></a></div>
All the colors glides on the skin so effortlessly that requires minimum blending. They all dry fast yet I still have enough time to blend the colors. I would recommend you blend the first color as soon as you apply it before moving on to the next, though. Once the colors set, they won't budge for good 6 hours (without a primer) to 8 hours (with a primer) on my lids.<br />
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These caviar sticks are mechanical so you won't need a pencil sharpener. No product will be wasted. I apply the colors directly from the pencil then blend them out with my clean fingers. It's really easy and fool proof.<br />
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Now let's chat about the value of this set. A full size caviar stick is retailed at $28 for 0.05 oz. You have 6 x 0.03 oz (0.18 oz) for $55. This amount would have been worth $100. The nice thing is you have 6 color variations. This set by far is my favorite holiday set from any brand this year. The value is awesome but more importantly the quality is superb.<br />
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Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Eye Color set will be a perfect gift for makeup beginner as it's so easy-to-use, color-wise and application-wise. And your makeup connoisseur friends will love it too. Don't let the shimmer concern you as it's subtle and buildable accordingly to your taste.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsXXZK2-Ab0/VIpJWLRSmfI/AAAAAAAAFFc/rvkpv7QMtuk/s1600/IMG_7061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsXXZK2-Ab0/VIpJWLRSmfI/AAAAAAAAFFc/rvkpv7QMtuk/s1600/IMG_7061.JPG" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
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<i>One more close-up</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I3Zpu_XnQTY/VIpJQtvcR7I/AAAAAAAAFFE/Fw7ArEO3Zrs/s1600/IMG_7011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I3Zpu_XnQTY/VIpJQtvcR7I/AAAAAAAAFFE/Fw7ArEO3Zrs/s1600/IMG_7011.JPG" height="454" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Bottom line</b>. Big love. If perfection exists, this is it. I can't say enough good things about this set.<br />
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You can find this set at department stores Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman. Sephora has a set of 4 (minus Copper and Khaki) that get sold out quickly. It showed up online for a while then disappeared again. So if you're patient, you might be able to get it.<br />
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Have you tried Laura Mercier caviar stick eye colors? How do you like them?</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-91549855814379472742014-11-19T16:04:00.000-06:002014-11-19T16:50:26.497-06:00Review: Tom Ford Contouring Cheek Color Duos Softcore and Stroked Fall 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTSh-Lf-Njk/VD87PQNh4HI/AAAAAAAAFC0/b4peNRMdgao/s1600/IMG_6857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTSh-Lf-Njk/VD87PQNh4HI/AAAAAAAAFC0/b4peNRMdgao/s1600/IMG_6857.JPG" height="640" width="488" /></a></div>
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As I am typing this line, the two limited edition Contouring Cheek Color Duos Fall 2014 Softcore and Stroked ($77 for 0.7 oz) are on and off available on tomford.com. If you haven't had a chance to try them at the counter or are on the fence of whether to invest, I urge them to grab them both! The reason? For me: it's Tom Ford cheek product, duh! I have come to love (and collected) <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/08/swatch-and-review-tom-ford-blushes-love.html">all Tom Ford powder blushes</a>. The formula, the color, the texture, the wearing, worth every single penny. So these two cheek duos were what I most anticipated from his fall collection, not <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/08/preview-my-pick-of-tom-ford-beauty-fall.html">Nude Dip</a> eyeshadow quad you guys. </div>
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But if you haven't had the same experience as I've had with his blushes, I hope this review will help you to decide whether Softcore and Stroked deserve a place in your makeup collection. </div>
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First, let's take a look at these stunning cheek duos. </div>
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<b>Softcore</b> is a frosty pinkish champaign highlighter (hint of metallic finish) and a matte reddish brown. This palette leans cool on my warm skin although it's not too cool to the point I can't wear it. I need to go extra easy on the highlighter shades or else it can look ashy. </div>
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<b>Stroked</b> has a shimmery golden champaign highlighter and a shimmery warm medium brown that's not as deep as the contouring shade in Softcore. It's no surprise that Stroked looks more natural on my warm skin tone than Softcore but it's neutral enough that I think it will flatter cooler skin tones as well. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X5mi6WOn_XY/VG0FT8cowgI/AAAAAAAAFD4/pBzQLqmNNWA/s1600/IMG_7066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X5mi6WOn_XY/VG0FT8cowgI/AAAAAAAAFD4/pBzQLqmNNWA/s1600/IMG_7066.JPG" height="441" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E7QI_h0Et9s/VG0FVSufnwI/AAAAAAAAFEA/ut5VBULDL7k/s1600/IMG_7068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E7QI_h0Et9s/VG0FVSufnwI/AAAAAAAAFEA/ut5VBULDL7k/s1600/IMG_7068.JPG" height="396" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can tell right away that these aren't typical greyish, taupe or brown that we regular makeup users think of. And I'm so glad they aren't. While the taupe color family might more like "killer cheek bones" in photos, I much prefer these reddish warm brown for everyday contouring. </div>
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Softcore and Stroked deliver a <b>phenomenal quality </b>just as I expected from Tom Ford wonderful powder blushes. The highligher shades add a lovely glow to my cheeks as if my skin is that healthy even under the dreadful car lighting. Both the highlighting and contouring shades are seamlessly blendable. They don't require much blending to look natural. The texture feels so smooth like velvet. Both palettes wear well for 8-10 hours without fading. </div>
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<i>Some other favorites of mine: Bobbi Brown Pink Oyster shimmer brick, Dior Amber Diamond, Tom Ford Ravish blush, the Balm Mary Lou Manizer, Dior Rose Diamond</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0m108F7-0qA/VG0P1Ls5rRI/AAAAAAAAFEQ/eNFoHqpqvEI/s1600/IMG_7051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0m108F7-0qA/VG0P1Ls5rRI/AAAAAAAAFEQ/eNFoHqpqvEI/s1600/IMG_7051.JPG" height="276" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The highlighter shades compared to some highlighters</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd-GrYgUHAA/VG0QMM-SQBI/AAAAAAAAFEg/lAFKt6_I-38/s1600/IMG_7041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd-GrYgUHAA/VG0QMM-SQBI/AAAAAAAAFEg/lAFKt6_I-38/s1600/IMG_7041.JPG" height="282" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edRkLFbNJv8/VG0QKMzECXI/AAAAAAAAFEY/SiaKBy32rSI/s1600/IMG_7064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edRkLFbNJv8/VG0QKMzECXI/AAAAAAAAFEY/SiaKBy32rSI/s1600/IMG_7064.JPG" height="284" width="640" /></a></div>
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The closet to Stroked highlighter shade in my collection is Dior Amber Diamond. The Balm Mary Lou Manizer has more beige than Stroked. Bobbi Brown Pink Oyster is quite similar to Softcore. But all in all, I love the texture and the blendability of Tom Ford's duos the best. I also think they give me a more believable glow than the rest. </div>
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<i>The contouring shades compared to Tom Ford Ravish blush</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8JYN71-Bj0/VG0Q6tLSsII/AAAAAAAAFEw/iK7PUNB8khI/s1600/IMG_7055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8JYN71-Bj0/VG0Q6tLSsII/AAAAAAAAFEw/iK7PUNB8khI/s1600/IMG_7055.JPG" height="342" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIY3BbkvFv0/VG0Q6AFNwBI/AAAAAAAAFEs/FeXRoyxR4gQ/s1600/IMG_7067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIY3BbkvFv0/VG0Q6AFNwBI/AAAAAAAAFEs/FeXRoyxR4gQ/s1600/IMG_7067.JPG" height="332" width="400" /></a></div>
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Contouring cheeks aren't either my type or my strong suit. These duos make contouring very easy.<br />
They help me sculpt my face effortlessly for everyday and natural looks. The key is to use a very light hand because these babies are richly pigmented. For those of you who have deeper skin tones or you prefer strong dramatic sculpted face, you won't be disappointed either. I would recommend you use lighter hand to contour your temples and hair light still. <br />
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<i>Nude Dip on the eyes, Softcore on the cheeks, Twist of Fate on the lips</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbGUwjTZ7Ew/VGz4rPQ1ziI/AAAAAAAAFDo/zVFhiQCS8-U/s1600/IMG_6927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbGUwjTZ7Ew/VGz4rPQ1ziI/AAAAAAAAFDo/zVFhiQCS8-U/s1600/IMG_6927.JPG" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
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<b>Now let's talk the price. </b>Tom Ford contouring cheek color duos are priced at hefty $77 for 0.7 oz/20 g of product. That's a lot compared to other designer brands, and to Tom Ford itself. Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate (cream formula) offer 0.49 oz/14 g of products at $77 while his blushes are $57 for 0.28 oz/8 g of powder. These duos, I tell you, will last a long long time given how pigmented they are and the amount of product they offer. </div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugof1oGp43I/VD8-Xt50ZgI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/VeFHsvGOrQg/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugof1oGp43I/VD8-Xt50ZgI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/VeFHsvGOrQg/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" height="640" width="598" /></a><br />
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<b>Bottom line</b>: Pure love! Softcore and Stroked should be a part of permanent range. </div>
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Have you cheek our Softcore and Stroked? How do you like them? What brushes are you using to apply them? </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-36192862904043204112014-10-15T22:37:00.001-05:002014-10-20T21:55:28.785-05:00Tom Ford Beauty Fall 2014 - Addition of Softcore<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My apologies for lacking of posts lately, especially reviews on the instantly-sold-old Tom Ford Beauty Fall 2014 collection. My excuse is a cliche yet true - my crazy work schedule. I'm enjoying my job and got sucked up with it. Anyway, I need to update you guys with my latest obsession of Tom Ford Beauty - his contouring cheek color duos. They're my favorite from the line and from any other brands I've tested!! Love. Admired. Obsessed. Use them everyday since August.<br />
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Remember I was pondering on the other cheek contouring color Softcore in August? (please check out this preview of the collection <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/08/preview-my-pick-of-tom-ford-beauty-fall.html">here</a>). You guested it. I love Stroked so much that I decided to splurge on Softcore via tomford.com. Below are my final picks from the collection. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJlHHzEtguU/VD86k_lAH3I/AAAAAAAAFCs/hl9Cq6oXnU4/s1600/IMG_6856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJlHHzEtguU/VD86k_lAH3I/AAAAAAAAFCs/hl9Cq6oXnU4/s1600/IMG_6856.JPG" height="238" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here is a close-up of Softcore and Stroked (under direct sunlight).<br />
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Both Softcore and Stroked are extremely pigmented so I would recommend a not so dense brush and a light hand. You can certainly build up for more dramatic contouring/highlighting effect. I've been sporting them non-stop for day looks and beyond happy with both. Reviews are coming I promised!<br />
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Which do you prefer Softcore or Stroked?</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-36764391942662389892014-08-30T15:06:00.002-05:002014-08-30T15:06:52.073-05:00Preview - My Pick of Tom Ford Beauty Fall 2014 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As you're reading this post, Tom Ford Beauty Fall 2014 is already sold out online, especially the eyecolor quad Nude Dip. This light-speed disappearance of Mr. Ford's limited editions happens every season but this fall it's ridiculously fast. So call around the counters and grab them immediately before they're gone. My recommendation is the entire collection, which isn't helpful I guess. If you're warm toned like me then Stroke contouring duo and Twist of Fate lipstick are must-haves. Nude Dip works for everyone and offers superb quality. If you lean more cool-toned, then Softcore will look beautiful on you. </div>
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I'm still playing around with the purchased items. Here are a few thoughts</div>
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Nude Dip eyecolor quad is stunning. Although it's a neutral quad and quite dupable color-wise, the texture and finishes are unmatched. It has peach, champagne, taupe, and cool bronze theme that will flatter all skin tones. Tom Ford shimmer is wearable and sophisticated. Still, Nude Dip is all the heavier shimmer side so you need to at least like to have some sheen for your eyes. I prefer to use it dry for less intensity of the frost finish but the wet look is really sexy. It weights noticeably less than a permanent quad (0.21 oz/6 g vs. 0.35 oz/10 g). I still think it's worth $79. Highly-recommended!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9k58vx34syk/VAIll0QyIkI/AAAAAAAAE6w/nVgG9oqMCr8/s1600/IMG_6788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9k58vx34syk/VAIll0QyIkI/AAAAAAAAE6w/nVgG9oqMCr8/s1600/IMG_6788.JPG" height="544" width="640" /></a></div>
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The most intriguing item to me, however, are the two contouring cheek duos. Given <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/08/swatch-and-review-tom-ford-blushes-love.html#.VAItJBw23Ec">how much I love Tom Ford blushes</a>, it's no surprise that I must jump into any new powder products. Stroked is warmer and Softcore is cooler and more berry in both highlighting and contouring shades. I skipped Softcore due to the highlighter that can easily look ashy if I'm not careful. The contouring shade in Softcore palette however is gorgeous. I'm debating whether to get it just for that.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z4-dEEOiO7Q/VAIlk50raYI/AAAAAAAAE6o/sJ7kxDT8hho/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z4-dEEOiO7Q/VAIlk50raYI/AAAAAAAAE6o/sJ7kxDT8hho/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" height="640" width="598" /></a></div>
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The contouring cheek duo is housed in the similar case as the <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/12/tom-ford-shade-and-illuminate-intensity.html">Shade and Illuminate</a>, yet it offers more product ( 0.7 oz/ 20 g vs. 0.49 oz/14 g). Each shade also has more product than a blush (0.7 oz/20 g for 2 shades vs. 0.28 oz/8 g of blush). I have doubled checked and neither Stroked nor Softcore is similar to any blushes ever offered by Tom Ford. So no worries on the duplicate and more reason to splurge on these lovely duos.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQmENNVpMuk/VAIls6kG1QI/AAAAAAAAE7A/INXFH52MB9U/s1600/IMG_6796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQmENNVpMuk/VAIls6kG1QI/AAAAAAAAE7A/INXFH52MB9U/s1600/IMG_6796.JPG" height="522" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally, Twist of Fate was a pleasant surprise. We have to gush no more about the formula of Tom Ford lipsticks. I LOVE this muted and somehow bright coral on my lips. It's deeper and has more brown than <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/09/burberry-lip-cover-devon-sunset.html#.VAIszBw23Ec">Burberry Devon Sunset </a>but belongs to the same coral family. It's beautiful!!<br />
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Have you picked up Tom Ford Beauty Fall 2014? Any favorites? Or you have the super power to resist it then share your secrets here with us.</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-25603146147501384222014-08-22T08:00:00.000-05:002014-08-24T11:36:05.471-05:00Swatch and Review: Tom Ford Blushes Love Lust, Frantic Pink, Flush, Savage, Ravish, Wicked, Narcissist<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>(Click to enlarge) Tom Ford blushes side by side </i></div>
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I fell in love with Tom Ford Beauty so quickly staring with his <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-eye-color-quad-02-cognac-sable.html">Cognac Sable eyeshadow quad</a> and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/12/tom-ford-shade-and-illuminate-intensity.html">Shade and Illuminate duo Intensity 2</a>. But not until I dusted Narcissist on my cheeks has my love for the brand completely established. <i>Permanently</i>. Then I of course went back to the counter for more blushes, more eyeshadows, lipsticks, primer, foundation stick, brow pencil and most recently his insanely good brushes.<br />
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If you want to just own a single Tom Ford item, grab a blush. I finally managed to get all of Tom Ford current blushes and swatched them here for you. How beautiful, edgy, sensual, opulent, extravagant, impeccable they are! They deliver phenomenal quality and are surprisingly wearable! If you want to read my detailed review of each shade, please choose below </div>
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<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/review-tom-ford-blush-01-love-lust.html">Love Lust</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-tom-ford-cheek-color-02-frantic.html">Frantic Pink</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-03-flush.html">Flush</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-04-savage.html">Savage</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-blush-05-ravish.html">Ravish</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">Wicked</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/11/tom-ford-beauty-fall-2012-narcissist.html">Narcissist</a> </div>
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<i>Close-up under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<b><u>Swatches</u></b><br />
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<i>Neutral Lighting</i></div>
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<i>Direct sunlight</i></div>
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<i>Cool lighting</i></div>
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<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/review-tom-ford-blush-01-love-lust.html">01 Love Lust</a> - a golden brown peach and cool pink shimmer that has high shine on the skin. It can be used as a highlighter. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-tom-ford-cheek-color-02-frantic.html">02 Frantic Pink</a> - a soft peachy pink with golden shimmer. It's gorgeous layering over <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/edward-bess-compact-rouge-in-love.html">Edward Bess Compact Rouge Love Affair</a> or <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-chanel-cream-blush-65-affinite.html">Chanel Cream Blush Affinite</a>. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-03-flush.html">03 Flush</a> - a vibrant peachy coral and coral shimmer. It's my favorite pick-me-up blush after a long night or the sun doesn't shine as brightly. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-04-savage.html">04 Savage</a> - an opulent red brown and cool pink shimmer. It's stunning for contouring or as a bronzer, but remember to use a light hand. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-blush-05-ravish.html">05 Ravish</a> - a pinky brown and cool pink shimmer, and probably the most versatile shade of the bunch. If I had to pick one blush to travel with, it'd be Ravish. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">06 Wicked</a> - a cool medium pink with pink shimmer and a toned down version of Narcissist and less red. </li>
<li><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/11/tom-ford-beauty-fall-2012-narcissist.html">07 Narcissist</a> - a vibrant red pink with blue undertone and tiny pink shimmer and the least shimmery shade of the bunch. This is where my love for Tom Ford blushes begin. Use a very light hand and what you'll get is a healthy blushing glow as if you just came back from a walk. </li>
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<b><u>Summary</u></b></div>
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Tom Ford blushes have a velvety smooth. They melt seamlessly into the skin like the second skin. They never cake up nor look powdery. They all have ultra fine shimmer, although at different levels. You will have a sheen on your cheeks without visible sparkles. Your skin will have a ridiculously beautiful healthy glow. And hold on, it's not all. Tom Ford blushes stay put all day, even under a humid weather like Houston summer. Highly pigmented except for Frantic Pink.</div>
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<u><b>Application</b></u></div>
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I would recommend several brushes for Tom Ford blushes</div>
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<li>For Narcissist, I've found a not so dense brush like <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/146/324/Products/Brushes/Face/168-Large-Angled-Contour-Brush/index.tmpl">MAC 168</a> pick up just enough color and great for blending. </li>
<li>For Frantic Pink, Tom Ford blush brush seems to work best to pick up color if you want to use it alone. In case of layering, <a href="http://studiogearcosmetics.com/shop/brushes/13-blush-brush/">Studio Gear blush brush #13</a> or <a href="http://www.dillards.com/product/Studio-Gear-14-Rouge-Brush_301_-1_301_503323351?df=03170028_zi&categoryId=900&scrollTop=2491">rouge brush #14</a> are both good options. </li>
<li>For the rest, use a dense brush to pick up the color then dab lightly to build up the colors. Any blush brush would work for those shades really. However, I've found natural-haired brushes pick up and blends the colors better since they're highly pigmented. </li>
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There you have it. My makeup collection heavily gear toward eyeshadows, yet I dare to own all shades of Tom Ford cheek colors. THAT's how much I love them. Do you have any favorite among those blushes? Or you swear by a different brand? Share away guys... </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-36578161241342272892014-08-15T08:00:00.000-05:002014-12-18T11:59:32.594-06:00Review: Tom Ford Eye Color Quad Orchid Haze<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Tom Ford Eye Color Quad Orchid Haze ($78 for 0.35 oz) was the new release from Fall 2013 collection. When entering the market last year, it created quite a buzz for the exquisite color coordination and finishes (I think). However, I resisted to review it sooner as <strike>I wasn't sure if I loved it enough to mention it </strike> finally I know how to wear this palette to suit my style!<br />
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Orchid Haze has very complex colors that I haven't found accurate words to describe. You have a shimmery neutral champagne, a shimmery taupe/mauve, a shimmery pinkish plum, and finally a beautiful matte deep plum. The whole palette radiates a warm rosy vibe, which I haven't gotten used to see myself in it. Maybe that's why Orchid Haze is my first eyeshadow palette of this color theme.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJT79E6M7ks/U9051ztKc2I/AAAAAAAAERo/da6uJz--ZZo/s1600/IMG_6182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJT79E6M7ks/U9051ztKc2I/AAAAAAAAERo/da6uJz--ZZo/s1600/IMG_6182.JPG" height="388" width="400" /></a></div>
In the pans, it looks like you get three shimmering shades. In reality, however, they lean more toward pearly and frosty finishes. Don't let the shimmer/frost scare you away if you tend to wear more subdued eyeshadows. I can't stress this enough - Tom Ford is the beauty brand that execute shimmer/glitter brilliantly. You won't walk out of your house like a disco-ball. It's office-friendly.<br />
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All four shades look lovely on my warm skin tone thanks to the warm undertone. <strike>I just don't feel it.</strike> <strike>Maybe my type of colors need to be more neutral.</strike> I use Tom Ford eyeshadow brush to apply the pinky plum on my lids and that's enough pink. My eyes can look a bit irritated if I don't pay attention. I also need to apply the matte deep plum lightly or else it'll look harsh. The warm taupe also works wonderful as a lid color or a highlighter to brighten up the inner corner of my eyes. My friends and colleagues love Orchid Haze on me! <strike>Me, just OK:) </strike> What I love about this palette is that it adds interesting rosy touch to a rather neutral and predictable colors. You know what I mean?<br />
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<i>Swatched under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-97psW_cZ9wE/U907j0uZO9I/AAAAAAAAESA/Wan-juG3XnQ/s1600/IMG_6211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-97psW_cZ9wE/U907j0uZO9I/AAAAAAAAESA/Wan-juG3XnQ/s1600/IMG_6211.JPG" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like other Tom Ford eyeshadow quads I've owned so far (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-eyeshadow-quad-01.html">Golden Mink</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-eye-color-quad-02-cognac-sable.html">Cognac Sable</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-tom-ford-eye-color-quad-no-3.html">Cocoa Mirage</a>), Orchid Haze has velvety smooth texture and stays put for good 8 hours on top of a standard primer. All four shades are richly pigmented and very easy-to-layer. I'm happy with the quality it offers, which is the main reason I keep this palette in my stash. </div>
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<i>The ingredients (click to enlarge)</i></div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. I'm pleased that Orchid Haze stays in the permanent collection although it's not my top choice of eyeshadow from the brand. The quality is super. Really it's the matter of your taste and your skin tone, you might love it <strike>or you might be indifferent like me.</strike> or you might have to play around quite a bit until you find the right approach like me. </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-50564912735683806852014-08-08T18:22:00.001-05:002014-08-08T23:00:55.696-05:00Review: Chanel Dentelle Precieuse Illuminating Powder<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Chanel Dentelle Precieuse Illuminating Powder ($80 for 0.21 oz) is a stunning highlighter that delivers a phenomenal quality. It offers luxurious packaging, exquisite lace design, a velvety smooth texture, an extremely flattering shade of beige with ultra fine multi shimmer, and that's not all. It stays on for 8 hours under humid weather like what we're having here in Houston.<br />
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Sounds awesome eh? However, Chanel Dentelle Precieuse is not a must-have. Yes, you hear me right. I found several alternatives that possess the same quality and only fail to compete with the beauty of Chanel's latest collector item. Not to mention the 80-dollar-plus-tax-plus-quite-a-few-run-around-to-locate-it price tag for just decent amount of product. I don't hate it, actually I love it. But I have better choices.<br />
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Before you Chanel Dentelle fans stone me, please hear my reasoning. The Chanel beauty comes in a pretty velvet pouch, a decent brush, and a large mirror. All is very convenient for touch up or traveling. You don't have to worry about bringing an extra mirror or brush or the case will be scratched. It's already taken care of.<br />
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<i>The powder comes in a pretty velvet pouch.</i> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sW3UB8heuos/U-Plt8QB20I/AAAAAAAAETc/GlZ3RPoJV6c/s1600/IMG_6699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sW3UB8heuos/U-Plt8QB20I/AAAAAAAAETc/GlZ3RPoJV6c/s1600/IMG_6699.JPG" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
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When you open the pouch, the brush is tucked neatly in the smaller compartment. It's actually quite a good brush. The bristles are soft and densely pack. I might use it for on the go, although I always prefer my own brushes.<br />
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Now onto the embossed dentelle. Breathtakingly beautiful and elegant isn't it? The lace details are so real that I had goose bumps taking these photos. So incredibly exquisite! You can see the thickness of the embossed lace. So Chanel!<br />
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<i>Next to the window, under cloudy sky</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7Z3IBspRqU/U-PmWiiEMXI/AAAAAAAAET0/vj31BwiTAcE/s1600/IMG_6697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7Z3IBspRqU/U-PmWiiEMXI/AAAAAAAAET0/vj31BwiTAcE/s1600/IMG_6697.JPG" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KF5AamMM8DY/U-Pmf2ifF1I/AAAAAAAAEUM/s9VJuuFaciA/s1600/IMG_6706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KF5AamMM8DY/U-Pmf2ifF1I/AAAAAAAAEUM/s9VJuuFaciA/s1600/IMG_6706.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The multi shimmer reflects sunlight</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaLbP2gCCEM/U-PmZNE5UiI/AAAAAAAAEUE/44R1XtzhGKg/s1600/IMG_6705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaLbP2gCCEM/U-PmZNE5UiI/AAAAAAAAEUE/44R1XtzhGKg/s1600/IMG_6705.JPG" height="602" width="640" /></a></div>
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Chanel Dentelle Precieuse has more to offer than just the pretty face. It's a warm peachy beige with a hint of pink infused with multi shimmer. Don't let the shimmer worry you as it's ultra fine and looks natural on the skin. From all the swatches I've seen on the internet so far, I think it works wonderful for all skin tone. The beige is delicately balanced with both peach and soft pink. For fair-skinned girls, I would recommend you use a light hand to highlight. It could well be a blush if you're really fair. On my light medium skin, it blends seamlessly into my skin color, leaving a sheen rather than a shine on the skin.<br />
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The texture of the power is silkily smooth without over powdery. It makes the blending effortless. So far so good right? I don't have any complains about the quality or the color itself. When I played around with Chanel Dentelle Precieuse at the counter, I thought of several other highlighters in my collection. So I pulled them out for comparison.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gNGBuGWwkFY/U-VJ4CWJ5GI/AAAAAAAAEVI/fyuikred208/s1600/IMG_6728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gNGBuGWwkFY/U-VJ4CWJ5GI/AAAAAAAAEVI/fyuikred208/s1600/IMG_6728.JPG" height="334" width="640" /></a><br />
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I swatched the bronzier stripes of <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/highlighter-dior-shimmer-star-amber.html">Dior Shimmer Star Amber Diamond</a> next to Chanel Dentelle. The colors are painfully similar. Dior Amber Diamond doesn't have as soft and smooth texture as Chanel's, yet the difference is nuance. The multi shimmer in Chanel Dentelle is a touch more visible, and may I say, sexier than Dior's. However, I can create more variations of highlighter with Dior Amber Diamond by simply swirling different color stripes together. Plus, Dior's priced roughly at $48 for 0.35 oz compared to Chanel's 0.21 oz of product at $80. Dior Amber Diamond wins, in my book. She doesn't have that stunning lace though. </div>
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<i>Cream: <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/becca-shimmering-skin-perfector-spf-25.html">Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Opal</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/01/edward-bess-all-over-seduction-in.html">Edward Bess All Over Seduction Afterglow</a> </i></div>
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<i>Powder: <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/09/highlighter-dior-shimmer-star-amber.html">Dior Shimmer Star Amber Diamond</a>, Chanelle Dentelle Precieuse </i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEnpB28zpwM/U-VJ4TeDhmI/AAAAAAAAEVM/jFZGNrllg3w/s1600/IMG_6726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEnpB28zpwM/U-VJ4TeDhmI/AAAAAAAAEVM/jFZGNrllg3w/s1600/IMG_6726.JPG" height="378" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also found two other highlighters in the cream formula, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/becca-shimmering-skin-perfector-spf-25.html">Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Opal</a> ($41 for 1.7 oz) and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/01/edward-bess-all-over-seduction-in.html">Edward Bess All Over Seduction Afterglow</a> ($38 for 0.08 oz), aka my all time favorite highlighter. They have the same peachy beige color as Chanel Dentelle. However, Edward Bess' has more subtle shimmer and Becca's has shinier and more metallic finish. On my skin these two look slightly different from Chanel Dentelle but mainly due to the different shimmer levels. Edward Bess Afterglow is tiny and turns out to be more expensive than Chanel Dentelle, $99 for 0.21 oz of Edward Bess Afterglow. Becca Opal is considerably more affordable than Chanel's. </div>
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<i>Different lighting to show the color</i></div>
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So my point is, if you already own one of those highlighters, and the chance is you have something similar to them anyway, you won't need Chanel Dentelle Precieuse. It's definitely a collector item. At the same time, if you collect beautifully designed makeup items, then you need to check it out.<br />
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I'm debating whether to keep Chanel Dentelle Precieuse. The lace does make me wonder...<br />
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<i>One last picture of this beautiful piece of art.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGFPyexbReg/U-PmgTLqVOI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/ZxXvuxCzFb8/s1600/IMG_6711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGFPyexbReg/U-PmgTLqVOI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/ZxXvuxCzFb8/s1600/IMG_6711.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have you check out Chanel Dentelle Precieuse? Anyone wants to convince me to keep it? </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-25721238420904117132014-08-07T15:45:00.000-05:002014-08-07T15:45:28.457-05:00Lately, I've come back <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My dearest readers,<br />
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The past several months of my life has been filled with ups and downs. Something at my core has changed, or grown as I'd like think. One of the consequences is that I no longer have the urge to own new beauty products. However, my passion for makeup and anything beauty hasn't changed a bit. I truly love to explore the world of beauty, learn and share this wonderful experience with you guys, my readers. The Convenient Beauty lives on. I'll leave<br />
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Thank you so much for your support. We've never met in person yet quite a few of you personally emailed me to make sure things were OK. It means so much to me.<br />
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I'm alright.<br />
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I'm back online.<br />
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xo<br />
<br />
Joanne </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-36998972312770226152013-10-31T08:00:00.000-05:002014-08-02T22:41:10.343-05:00Lately (hospitalization, thoughts on new beauty launches and some shopping) <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well well well. Where could I begin? Eh, The Convenient Beauty went muted for nearly a month. I also disappeared from my favorite blogs for even longer than that.<br />
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I was sick and was sent to the hospital for a few days. At first I felt like the earth shattered beneath my feet. I'm very scared of the hospitals in general. Oddly enough though, I had a great time there. I was making friends with everybody from nurses, doctors, administrative staff, cleaning staff, totally random patients, the room service ladies and having fun. But I was SO happy when my doctor sent me home. Then I spent the next few weeks to get back on track.</div>
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<i>My friends during August and September. Never want to see them again. </i></div>
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I still read your blogs, follow your conversation on twitter, browsing your youtube tutorials and drooling over your latest hauls on instagram. You still put a big smile on my face. I just didn't have the energy to join the talks :(.<br />
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Speaking of instagram, you guys probably recognized my obsession for flats. I ain't care if that extra half an inch looks more fashionable. Everybody knows that I'm petite. Plus, flats are ridiculously cute, aren't they?<br />
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<i>My recent splurges! The wish list goes on, especially J Crew. </i></div>
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<i>Top left: Coach Unique flats; Bottom left: Coach Wendy Snake Polka Dots</i></div>
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<i>Top right: J Crew Cece flat; Bottom right: J Crew studded Cece flats </i></div>
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Since my <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/haul-sephora-collection-and-tom-ford.html">last makeup haul</a>, I completed my Tom Ford blush collection with <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">Wicked</a> (swatches of all blushes are coming) and expanded my Tom Ford brushes. The only fall makeup I got was Tom Ford Orchid Haze eyeshadow quad (review coming soon). Then there were some essentials, i.e. Shiseido urban environment sunscreen, and YSL baby doll mascara full size. No haul is complete without some compulsive purchases. I'm obsessed with Formula X for Sephora in Ignite and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-formula-x-for-sephora-blazing.html#.Um6JhRzCTEc">Blazing</a>. Guys, you must check it out!!<br />
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<i>Some beauty goodies since July. </i><br />
<i>Top row: <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-le-metier-de-beaute-kaleidoscope.html">Le Metier de Beaute kaleidoscope Spendid Frost</a>, Formula X for Sephora Ignite, Shiseido Urban environment Oil-free sunscreen SPF 42, Tom Ford brushes</i><br />
<i>Bottom row: <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">Tom Ford blush Wicked</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/10/review-formula-x-for-sephora-blazing.html">Formula X for Sephora Blazing</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/review-ysl-volume-effect-faux-cils.html">YSL Babydoll mascara</a>, Tom Ford eyecolor quad Orchid Haze </i><br />
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August and September were also the launch month of long-awaited makeup lines. Michael Kors beauty is a big fat MEH. It's just pile of shimmer, and lack of personality and pigmentation. But I gotta admit the promo pictures are utterly glamorous and stunning. Also, I've been underwhelmed and unimpressed by the entire Marc Jacobs' beauty line, well, except for his liquid eyeliner.<br />
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On a more positive note, I'm so excited about Charlotte Tilburry's makeup line, especially all of her eyeliners, the bronzer/highlighter, and the eyeshadow quads. I can't wait until she ships it to the US. That $40 shipping from Selfridge doesn't cut it for me.<br />
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Michelle Phan's em cosmetics also grabbed my attention. I don't plan on testing out her line but I applaud her for the very well-designed range. The idea is spot-on for her target audience, although I don't think the price point addresses them well.<br />
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Have any of you checked out Torry Burch's beauty line? I would love to hear your thoughts. The fragrance was OK but I'm curious about the rest of her makeup line. <br />
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That's it! I'm alive. Had some time off. Shopped. Enjoying life as it is. What about you? </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-53444420972070548312013-10-28T10:56:00.001-05:002013-10-29T22:57:25.153-05:00Look: Soft stain lips <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When the fall comes, I just simply can't resist deeper lip colors. My two favorite vampy lipsticks for fall are <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/12/guest-blog-on-beauty-by-arielle.html">Bite Beauty Mulberry</a> (review is <a href="http://beautybyarielle.blogspot.com/2012/12/guest-blogger-joanne-of-convenient.html?m=1">here</a>) and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-private-blend-lipstick-black.html#.Um6G3xzCTEc">Tom Ford Black Orchid </a>which by the way looks almost identical to its replacement Bruised Plum (yay!). I love the dark deep decadent shade of plum yet sporting it daily can be over the top. Lately, I've been wearing Tom Ford Black Orchid non-stop as a stain and pair it with his cream eyeshadows to create a softer and youthful look. Tons of compliments have been received. Hope you enjoy! The full list of products used is at the bottom as usual. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lg6VJyoGJ6k/Um6CGIRo3nI/AAAAAAAAEO4/ZrE68qhjIDo/s1600/IMG_6267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lg6VJyoGJ6k/Um6CGIRo3nI/AAAAAAAAEO4/ZrE68qhjIDo/s640/IMG_6267.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="440" /></a></div>
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<i>Color products used. In my very own fashion, I forgot Dior Beige Massai :D but I link to it below. </i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqs9QKcaZm4/UmBM1lCnw4I/AAAAAAAAEOY/6DPJpwPClfY/s1600/IMG_6220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqs9QKcaZm4/UmBM1lCnw4I/AAAAAAAAEOY/6DPJpwPClfY/s640/IMG_6220.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="608" /></a></div>
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<i>Look breakdown</i></div>
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<i>Face</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-traceless-foundation.html">Tom Ford Traceless Foundation Stick No 5</a></i></div>
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<i>Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer Custard</i></div>
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<i>Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/12/tom-ford-shade-and-illuminate-intensity.html">Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate #2</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/06/dior-healthy-glow-powder-in-aurora-new.html">Dior Healthy Glow Powder Aurora</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-blush-05-ravish.html">Tom Ford Cheek Color Ravish</a></i></div>
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<i>Eyes</i></div>
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<i>Nars Pro-prime Eye primer</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/05/review-tom-ford-beauty-summer-2013.html">Tom Ford Cream eyeshadow in Pink Haze (main lid color) and Escapade (1/3 inner lid)</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-eyeshadow-quad-01.html">Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad Golden Mink </a>(the brown shade for outer V)</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-in-beige.html">Dior 5-color Eyeshadow Quint Beige Massai</a> (deepest brown to define lower lash line)</i></div>
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<i>Sephora Eyeliner Retractable Waterproof #10 Matte Brown/Black (this baby puts Chanel version at shame) </i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/review-ysl-volume-effect-faux-cils.html">YSL Volume Effect Faux Cils Babydoll Mascara</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-brow-sculptor-in-espresso.html">Tom Ford Brow Scupltor Espresso</a></i></div>
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<i>Lips</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-private-blend-lipstick-black.html#.Um6G3xzCTEc">Tom Ford Lip Color Black Orchid </a>(2 sheer layers) </i></div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-20517207021671125232013-10-23T08:00:00.000-05:002013-10-23T08:00:05.663-05:00Review: Formula X for Sephora Blazing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfpYANRdOV8/UmBGhx4izXI/AAAAAAAAEN8/UeUmRo99pWs/s1600/IMG_6214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfpYANRdOV8/UmBGhx4izXI/AAAAAAAAEN8/UeUmRo99pWs/s640/IMG_6214.JPG" width="488" /></a></div>
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Blazing ($10.5 for 0.5 oz) took my breathe away... I don't think my description will do the justice.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRtozmLoy8U/Ul33k62HD-I/AAAAAAAAENg/NT8m67nqjhU/s1600/IMG_6166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRtozmLoy8U/Ul33k62HD-I/AAAAAAAAENg/NT8m67nqjhU/s640/IMG_6166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love everything about it. The three-free formula (no toluene, no formandehide, no DBS, which is supposed to be pregnancy-safe). The unbelievably stunning color. The shimmer. The texture. The smoothness. The ease of application, especially for such a dark color. It evens out by itself if you know what I mean. My clumpy hands spread the polish unevenly leaving behind streaks, yet the jelly texture of Blazing just auto-corrects it. Amazing! </div>
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Blazing is supposed to last 2 weeks if being coupled with the Formula X system (cleanse, base, color and top coat). I used Butter London base coat and hardware top coat and it last 5 days without chipping. But I do have to take care of my nail. I find the brush a good size, very easy to use. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K_Ek0dKC0FM/Ul33kvf8alI/AAAAAAAAENc/3on1TpwC6hc/s1600/IMG_6160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K_Ek0dKC0FM/Ul33kvf8alI/AAAAAAAAENc/3on1TpwC6hc/s640/IMG_6160.JPG" width="529" /></a></div>
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<i>Indoors to show you the burgundy undertone. </i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igQqOVma574/Ul33hsPmWuI/AAAAAAAAENU/FoDABsUSyic/s1600/IMG_6159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igQqOVma574/Ul33hsPmWuI/AAAAAAAAENU/FoDABsUSyic/s640/IMG_6159.JPG" width="489" /></a></div>
I have received tons of compliments. Blazing is one of those shades you can carry all the way to the holiday season. I myself will wear it year round, probably not for corporate environment. It's perfect to dress up an outfit and add some edgy punk to the look.<br />
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One last look at Blazing. I feel so dazzling.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ssr1nOtdIA/Ul33m1a82hI/AAAAAAAAENs/Zj2cAR9aW3M/s1600/IMG_6172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="585" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ssr1nOtdIA/Ul33m1a82hI/AAAAAAAAENs/Zj2cAR9aW3M/s640/IMG_6172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. LOVE. Get it! </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-62318453293624119352013-10-16T08:00:00.000-05:002013-10-16T08:00:11.984-05:00Review: Tom Ford Cheek Color 02 Frantic Pink<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-feBy2tlmLZo/Ulq9YRSdFBI/AAAAAAAAEL8/QxLwscvQfH0/s1600/IMG_5768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-feBy2tlmLZo/Ulq9YRSdFBI/AAAAAAAAEL8/QxLwscvQfH0/s400/IMG_5768.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
It took me quite some time to finish the review of Tom Ford Frantic Pink as I wasn't sure how I felt about it. It's a very good blush. Beautiful. Lovely. Natural. Long-wearing. Smooth. But it isn't as phenomenal as the rest of Tom Ford's blushes (reviews of <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/review-tom-ford-blush-01-love-lust.html#.Ul2QcBzCTEc">Love Lust,</a> <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-03-flush.html">Flush</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-04-savage.html#.Ul2QhhzCTEc">Savage</a>,<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-blush-05-ravish.html#.Ul2QgxzCTEc"> Ravish</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">Wicked</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/11/tom-ford-beauty-fall-2012-narcissist.html">Narcissist</a>). While I still love Frantic Pink, I don't reach for it very often. Here is why.<br />
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Tom Ford Frantic Pink blush ($56 for 0.28 oz) is a light peachy pink with golden shimmer. On my light medium skin tone, it's a soft peachy pink. The pigmentation is sheerer than the rest of Tom Ford blushes. Also because Frantic Pink is a soft color, it doesn't show up very well on me. If I keep layering the blush to get more opaque result, Frantic Pink washes me off. My solutions are 1) layering on top of a brighter blush (my favorite is Edward Bess compact rouge in Love Affair, subtle bright pink!) and 2) applying it on top of the cheekbones as a highlighter.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tq_2Pv7NXMI/Ulq9VNJGzSI/AAAAAAAAELs/SCYVwwf77C8/s1600/IMG_5766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tq_2Pv7NXMI/Ulq9VNJGzSI/AAAAAAAAELs/SCYVwwf77C8/s400/IMG_5766.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Frantic Pink softens and enhances a brighter blush, creating a soft glow and tone down the strong pigmentation. On deeper skin tones, Frantic Pink would work beautifully as a highlighter. I prefer a stronger glow that requires a much lighter color and a bit more shimmer. So it doesn't highlight my cheekbones much. In other words, I need to use Frantic Pink together with something else. And I'm lazy about it. Yes, the combination will be beautiful. It's just not what I expect from a Tom Ford blush. </div>
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<i>Swatched under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0kH2-hi_yqU/Ulq_vcj-uhI/AAAAAAAAEMI/3QibPIiduaU/s1600/IMG_5947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0kH2-hi_yqU/Ulq_vcj-uhI/AAAAAAAAEMI/3QibPIiduaU/s400/IMG_5947.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qohu6In51Q8/Ulq_wDx5T_I/AAAAAAAAEMM/xuhjjKouYG8/s1600/IMG_5951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qohu6In51Q8/Ulq_wDx5T_I/AAAAAAAAEMM/xuhjjKouYG8/s400/IMG_5951.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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With that being said, Frantic Pink still offers excellent quality. Like other powder products from the brand, Frantic Pink has velvety smooth texture and delivers a sophisticated sheen. You won't detect the shimmer, yeah I know, I've emphasized how elegant Tom Ford shimmer is. </div>
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<i>The ingredients</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MHS4rTXn5M/Ulq9Xf2e36I/AAAAAAAAEL0/qaBSVCazbL4/s1600/IMG_5789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MHS4rTXn5M/Ulq9Xf2e36I/AAAAAAAAEL0/qaBSVCazbL4/s400/IMG_5789.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Bottom line</b>. A nice-to-have blush for me. An excellent blush although not as phenomenal as the rest of Tom Ford blush range. If you have fair to light skin, you'll rock it way better than me. </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-45264263076345070022013-10-12T08:00:00.000-05:002013-10-13T10:15:32.735-05:00Review: Le Metier de Beaute Classic Flawless Finish Foundation SPF 8 No 5<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uoEy3TA148I/UljF-0IGZUI/AAAAAAAAELU/tSkn8QPx4ZQ/s1600/NMC0EK1_mx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uoEy3TA148I/UljF-0IGZUI/AAAAAAAAELU/tSkn8QPx4ZQ/s400/NMC0EK1_mx.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Le-Metier-de-Beaute-Classic-Flawless-Finish-Liquid-Foundation-Face/prod63930230_cat17550762__/p.prod?icid=&searchType=EndecaDrivenCat&rte=%252Fcategory.jsp%253FitemId%253Dcat17550762%2526pageSize%253D120%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D&eItemId=prod63930230&cmCat=product">via Neiman Marcus</a> (non affiliate link)</i></div>
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A few months back, I did a mini-exploration with Le Metier de Beaute and came home with a sample of the famous Classic Flawless Finish Foundation. It comes in 11 shades ($68 for 1 oz). I picked shade 5 but shade 6 could work on my skin tone too (FYI, my top three foundations are <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/07/clarins-ever-matte-foundation-spf-15.html">Clarins Ever Matte 108</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-traceless-foundation.html">Tom Ford Traceless Stick No 5</a>, <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/10/burberry-sheer-luminous-foundation.html">Burberry Sheer Luminous Trench 6</a>).<br />
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The first thought came to my mind was that the finish, texture and coverage felt very similar to those of Burberry Luminous Trench foundation. But LMdB's has slightly thicker formula and hence offers a bit fuller coverage. It's light weight and smooth. I love how it evens out my skin tone and creates a ultra smooth finish.<br />
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<i>Swatched under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqlA_pqhdRU/UlbLOq7o2SI/AAAAAAAAELE/D-vYFu6PUa4/s1600/IMG_6114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqlA_pqhdRU/UlbLOq7o2SI/AAAAAAAAELE/D-vYFu6PUa4/s640/IMG_6114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also found No 5 a good color match. It leans a bit pinker than my overall facial. LMdB Classic Flawless does oxidize slightly on my skin and warms up to half shade deeper. However, this oxidation falls into my workable zone and isn't as obvious as many other foundations that I must pass over. </div>
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<i>A facial shot. I use LMdB <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-le-metier-de-beaute-kaleidoscope.html">Splendid Frost </a>kaleidoscope kit for eyes and cheeks. <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/review-tom-ford-lip-color-no-13-blush.html">Tom Ford Blush Nude</a> on my lips. </i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERTy_ucNA3s/UggPzbNRUjI/AAAAAAAAEJM/e0Wm9qhb9PA/s1600/IMG_6094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERTy_ucNA3s/UggPzbNRUjI/AAAAAAAAEJM/e0Wm9qhb9PA/s640/IMG_6094.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<i>More close-up</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i9CzaL288Q/UggP7mYcsBI/AAAAAAAAEJc/JnzF6qj1G1I/s1600/IMG_6095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i9CzaL288Q/UggP7mYcsBI/AAAAAAAAEJc/JnzF6qj1G1I/s640/IMG_6095.JPG" width="504" /></a></div>
LMdB Classic Flawless last all day in humid weather. This, alone, beats my beloved Burberry Sheer Luminous. I didn't need to set it with powder. It stayed fresh for 6 hours then warmed up slightly and looked good until hour 8. Burberry Luminous stays 6 hr only and becomes shiny and fates quickly after 6 hours.<br />
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The only throw-offs, you may not be surprised, are parabens and mineral oils. I try to avoid these ingredients in my makeup and skincare as much as possible. I prefer Burberry's for color match and preservative-free, but it's only because it suits my taste better than LMdB Classic Flawless. If those ingredients ain't your concern and you prefer natural full coverage and long-wearing formula, LMdB got you covered.<br />
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<b>Bottom line</b>. Highly recommended! </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-32311972584811298762013-10-09T21:35:00.001-05:002013-10-09T21:35:45.821-05:00Review: Chanel Cream Blush 65 Affinite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Chanel Le Blush Creme de Chanel 65 Affinite ($38 for 0.09 oz) is one of the new six cream blushes from the brand, and was probably the most sought after. It was unavailable for a while after the launch of the other fives. I scooped mine up on Chanel.com but now you can order it at Chanel counters of major department stores and online.<br />
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Before testing Chanel cream blushes at the counter, I was leaning toward Dior cream blushes for their lovely colors and creamy texture. Yet Chanel's really swept me off my feet. They melt into the skin seamlessly in the matte finish that mimics your skin texture. But no worries, you still have time to blend the blushes out afterward. The texture is very different from traditional cream blushes. They're not sticky. It crosses between cream and powder. I love applying Affinite with clean fingers. It's just easy and really quick. Chanel cream blushes are simply lovely and beautiful! </div>
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Affinite is a bright watermelon pink that resembles healthy blushing cheeks after good work-out. Although it's bright pink, I find it different from all the pink blushes I have (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/09/review-tom-ford-blush-05-wicked.html">here</a> and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/11/tom-ford-beauty-fall-2012-narcissist.html">here)</a>. It leans more watermelon and warmer. That's why I picked it up :D.</div>
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<i>Stronger direct sunlight</i></div>
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<i>Blent out - this is how I love to wear Affinite. </i></div>
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Chanel Affinite wears well for a full working day under the ridiculously humid weather we had here in Houston. If you're looking for a long-wearing, natural, easy-to-use and low maintenance kind of blush, the new generation of Chanel cream blushes got you cover. </div>
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Now, I think the price point is actually reasonable, especially for a bright shade like Affinite. A little goes a long way. It vaporizes almost instantly on the cheeks that you don't waste much product. </div>
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<i>Finally, the ingredients</i></div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. Phenomenal quality! Affinite is a must-have for those who want an instant pick-me-up complexion. I highly recommend for all skin tones and types.<br />
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Have you tried the new Chanel cream blushes? What's your favorite?</div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-59970886100688439182013-09-12T19:37:00.000-05:002013-09-12T19:37:31.248-05:00Review: Tom Ford Blush 05 Wicked<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Another brilliant design by Tom Ford is his cheek color in Wicked ($56 for 0.28 oz, a slightly raised price recently). I hate to sound like a broken record when it comes to raving Tom Ford blushes. I think his blushes are the very best on the market and the one product you must own from the brand or any brand. They're different. They have phenomenal quality. The price is putting off for the first splurge but the amount of product he offers is nowhere near skimpy. For more reviews of my Tom Ford blush collection, please click <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/review-tom-ford-blush-01-love-lust.html#uds-search-results">here</a>. I've shared my thoughts on all but Frantic Pink.<br />
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Wicked is a beautiful cool medium pink with ultra fine pink shimmer. And again, Tom Ford shimmer gives you a sheen rather than the visible sparkle. So please don't be concerned by pink shimmer. It has higher shine finish yet less red and blue undertone than the 2012 limited edition <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/11/tom-ford-beauty-fall-2012-narcissist.html">Narcissist</a>. Despite the shimmer, Wicked still looks very natural. Narcissist is my true blushing color after a good exercise hour and Wicked mimics my cheeks when the weather is warming up. </div>
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<i>Tom Ford Wiched against Chanel Rose Initiale, Splendid Frost Tier 3, Nars Orgasm and Benefit Coralista</i></div>
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Like his other powder product, Wicked is velvety smooth and melts into the skin seamlessly. Tom Ford blushes require hardly any blending at all with a dense blush brush. I only dab the brush on the pan to pick up the color then gently dab it on my cheeks. I simply repeat the process for more pigmented result. </div>
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Wicked, as I expected, wears well for good 10 hours in humid weather. I've been attempting to take a facial shot of Wicked but none turned out true color. So I'll post a look with wicked as soon as the camera cooperates (I gotta blame something, you know:D). </div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. Exceptional all around as expected! A true must-have. I highly recommend it for all skin tones and types.</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-64468636050491290892013-08-28T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-28T08:00:05.829-05:00Review: Le Metier de Beaute Kaleidoscope Eye Kit Spendid Frost - Holiday 2010 Limited Edition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Why on earth am I reviewing a holiday 2010 limited edition that was sold out moons ago? Well, I'm new to Le Metier de Beaute and have long desired to try out its Kaleidoscope kit. When Spendid Frost came about 3 years ago, I missed it and subsequently lost the interest to get other kits. I took a mental note to start the journey with LMdB if I could find a decent substitute for Splendid Frost. None came close to the impression with it and I thought it would be forever...<br />
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While I was chatting at LMdB counter the other day, the SA pulled Splendid Frost out from the drawer. It wasn't on display and I literally screamed. I had to have it. Although the second tier was slightly touched and the pan came off (which I didn't find out until I got home), I decided to keep it. I wanted to see if Splendid Frost was good enough for a thorough experiment with the brand and if I would regret not to return it.<br />
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Splendid Frost is the most expensive single piece of makeup I've ever splurged. The jaw-dropping $95 for 0.44 oz or $23 for 0.11 oz per shade is very comparable to other designer brands like Burberry, Dior, Chanel, Guerlain, etc.. even a little bit less painful. LMdB is priced the same as Tom Ford per ounce; both are about $214/oz. It's the initial investment we need to get through :D.<br />
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<i>(Click to enlarge the image)</i></div>
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Now, let's see if Splendid Frost delivers the expensive quality. It offers four gorgeous colors arranged on 4-tier compact. You have a shimmery gold taupe, a matte light grey, a shimmery pink peach and a fabulous blue with purple shimmer. The shimmer looks striking in the pans but very subtle on the lids. Despite the diverse finishes and tones, all colors blend together so well without getting muddy. They also complement each other well. The 3rd tier shade could be a blush if you're fair but it didn't show up much on my light medium skin. It's also the sheerest of the bunch. The other three shades are highly pigmented and go on opaque in just one layer. </div>
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I'm blown away by the texture, silkily smooth and ultra blendable. All for shades melt into the skin, making the blending and layering a piece of cake. Dark shades like tier 4 (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/09/burberry-sheer-eyeshadow-no-20-midnight.html">Burberry Midnight Blue</a> for example) tend to fall down onto my cheeks when I blend them away but I experienced zero fall-outs with any shade of Splendid Frost. Where you place the colors is where they sit and melt together. Impressive! </div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) Swatched under direct sunlight</i></div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) </i><i>Contrasting finishes: Matte - Satin - Shimmer - High Shimmer</i></div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) On my lids: tier 2 and 3 were mixed for the crease. Tier 1 is the main lid color and Tier 4 is the focus of the look. </i></div>
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The wearing is equally impressive. I used a standard primer and Splendid Frost stayed in place for 12 hours until being removed. I couldn't be happier with the quality of a powder eyeshadow palette, which brings me to the packaging.<br />
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Some people really enjoy the gimmicky slide-in-slide-out design of LMdB's kaleidoscope kits. I find the pans fling out too freely, which is OK on the counter rather than in the bag. I'd prefer four shades in the same plane like the regular eyeshadow palette. You wouldn't have to slide out 4 tiers to access the color. A mirror would be nice too. The particular kit I own isn't very sturdy. The pan comes off of tier 2, which has been reported a quite common problem with kaleidoscope kit. I hope LMdB will fix it for the sake of convenience and the hefty price tag.<br />
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Is Splendid Frost a must have? Quality-wise I would say Heck Yes!!!! But you'll get this type of quality from their single eyeshadows anyway. The colors of Splendid Frost isn't original. The golden taupe shade from <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/11/guerlain-ecrin-6-couleur-eyeshadow.html">Guerlain Place Vendome</a> is only a slight touch lighter and more golden than tier 1. <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/09/burberry-sheer-eyeshadow-no-20-midnight.html">Burberry Midnight Blue </a>has more grey and purple and deeper than tier 4, while the blue shade of <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/11/guerlain-ecrin-6-couleur-eyeshadow.html">Guerlain Place Vendome</a> has more blue. However, Splendid Forst delivers way better quality than <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/11/guerlain-ecrin-6-couleur-eyeshadow.html">Guerlain Place Vendome</a>, much smoother and more pigmented.<br />
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Tier 3, a pink peach, is closet to <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/08/Chanel-Joues-Contraste-Rose-Initiale.html">Chanel Rose Initial</a> blush. Tom Ford Wicked has more shimmer and pinker. Nars Orgasm and Benefit Coralista are peachier and more golden. Mixing Nars Orgasm and Chanel Rose Initial will be the dupe for Tier 3. However the texture of tier 3 is almost as smooth as Tom Ford Wicked. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjsEuA5BJEA/UggAoq_ANGI/AAAAAAAAEGg/aANBcDbNCYM/s1600/TFwicked_Narsorg_ChanelRoseIni_leMetier_Benefit+cor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjsEuA5BJEA/UggAoq_ANGI/AAAAAAAAEGg/aANBcDbNCYM/s640/TFwicked_Narsorg_ChanelRoseIni_leMetier_Benefit+cor.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
For all those possible alternatives, I don't think Splendid Frost is a must-have for me nor everyone.<br />
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Lastly, I'd like to share a few thoughts on <i>Couches de Couleurs (</i>or layering colors literally) that is heavily promoted by LMdB.<br />
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I highly recommend you check out Messy Wands' <a href="http://www.messywands.com/2011/12/le-metier-de-beaute-couches-de-couleurs.html">detailed description</a> on this topic. Basically, you can layer LMdB eyeshadows in many ways, including mixing cool and warm colors and contrasting texture to define the eyes. The shades can be broken down into 4 categories, brighten, warmth, focus and depth. Depending on your skin tone (and preferences), no two people's categories resemble exactly.<br />
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Now, I think this technique is a neat way for an average makeup user like me to navigate through zillions of eyeshadows all depths and finishes. However, I find it neither innovating nor original. Put aside the fancy terminology, we've seen this technique (although under no label) used by celebrity makeup artists like Mary Greenwell, Lisa Eldridge, Charlotte Tilburry, Pat McGrath, and self-taught makeup artists slash youtubers like Michelle Phan, TiffanyD, Raeviewer to name a few. And even a makeup amateur like me has layered colors and mixed textures that same way.<br />
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<i>(Click to enlarge) The ingredients</i></div>
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<i>More ingredients on the side of the box? Not sure if it's for all kaleidoscope kits</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C3oYe2ll5rY/Ugf61U6rHeI/AAAAAAAAEEg/4_CMgZ5WVB4/s1600/IMG_6027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="68" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C3oYe2ll5rY/Ugf61U6rHeI/AAAAAAAAEEg/4_CMgZ5WVB4/s400/IMG_6027.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. Nice to have! A truly beautiful beginning with Le Metier de Beaute. The quality and the color intrigue me to check out the entire line. However, I believe you can be equally happy with their single eyeshadows or find the dupes in your own collection.<br />
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What do you think of Spendid Frost and Le Metier de Beaute? </div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-7079212048841667402013-08-21T08:00:00.000-05:002013-10-15T12:03:27.532-05:00Review: Tom Ford Eye Color Quad No 3 Cocoa Mirage <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_v5IBcZw4M/UggG8ot6HLI/AAAAAAAAEHs/rXr2FYpeAzE/s1600/IMG_5764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_v5IBcZw4M/UggG8ot6HLI/AAAAAAAAEHs/rXr2FYpeAzE/s640/IMG_5764.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You probably know already that I have a thing for Tom Ford Beauty. I like the master mind behind it and the products speak to me. I trust the brand with its brilliantly executed shimmer/glitter powder products. The promo pictures always features dramatic makeup. It took me by a huge surprise that I would go crazy about a <i>matte neutral</i> <i>understated chic</i> eyeshadow palette by Tom Ford. Cocoa Mirage, in my opinion, is the very best Tom Ford's eye color quad, although it doesn't contain a Ford signature glitter shade nor the high-shine shimmer. By the way, I raved about <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/05/review-tom-ford-beauty-summer-2013.html#.Ug1t5xwgjEc">Tom Ford shimmer and glitter</a> in every post of the brand and why I, a self-diagnosed anti-shimmer-eyeshadow gal, love to wear them. So please don't let the word shimmer worry you!</div>
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Tom Ford Eye Color Quad 03 Cocoa Mirage ($78 for 0.35 oz) comes in the signature golden-rimmed brown case with a large mirrors and double-ended applicators which turned out quite good. It offers four stunning neutrals: a matte ivory, a matte medium brown, a matte deep brown and a rich cocoa brown with a hint of plum/bronze shimmer. The shimmer is so fine that you don't actually see it on the lids. What detectable is just the sheen that adds interesting twist to the rather basic color palette. I've found matte eyeshadows tend to have dry texture and look chalky on the skin. The three matte shades of Cocoa Mirage are however incredibly soft and pigmented. The shimmery cocoa brown is less pigmented than the other three yet it's still an opaque shade. </div>
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Capturing the true tone of Cocoa Mirage was a heck of a challenge. Under the direct sunlight, the palette looks rather warm. I took the pictures under different lighting to show you the sophisticated colors.<br />
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<i>Warm lighting</i></div>
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<i>Brighter and cooler lighting</i></div>
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Like other Tom Ford powder products, all four shades of Cocoa Mirage are velvet smooth and melt into the skin seamlessly. What I really <i>adore</i> about this particular quad is that all four shades work unbelievably harmoniously that you won't be able to tell where one color ends and another starts. It's a truly fool-proof quad. Cocoa Mirage is therefore ideal for professional settings but you can definitely smoke it up for edgier looks.</div>
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Cocoa Mirage will also complement all skin tones. The neutral browns that work for both cool and warm tone without making us look bruised and swollen. I have loads of neutrals brown, taupe, grey, mauve, and the likes but none is as neutral as Cocoa Mirage. For your reference, Tom Ford <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-eye-color-quad-02-cognac-sable.html">Cognac Sable</a> is considerably warmer and <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-tom-ford-eyeshadow-quad-01.html">Golden Mink</a> is slightly cooler. </div>
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Cocoa Mirage stays put for 8 hours straight without a primer and looks fresh past hour 12 with a standard primer. I tested it out during the 115F temperature and 80% humidity weather in Houston. The colors didn't fall out or fade but creased a little after 8 hours on my bare lids. </div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) </i><i>Neutral lighting</i></div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) </i><i>Warm lighting</i></div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) </i><i>Cool lighting</i></div>
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<i>All four shades on my lids. Very subtle yet flattering. </i></div>
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Tom Ford Beauty comes with huge price tag. I did a calculation on the eyeshadow <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/01/tom-ford-eye-color-quad-02-cognac-sable.html">here</a>. Price per ounce, Tom Ford eyeshadow quad is actually more affordable than Dior and about the same as Le Metier de Beaute Kaleidoscope Eye Kit. The eyeshadow turns out to be the least overpriced in the line :D. For me, Cocoa Mirage is well worth the investment. I've been wearing it non-stop for the past month. It now sits the top 3 all time favorite eyeshadow palettes besides <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/dior-5-color-eyeshadow-quint-in-beige.html#.Ug1wFRwgjEc">Dior 5-color Beige Massai</a> and Chanel 4-color Kaska Beige, both were discontinued. </div>
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Last but not least, the ingredients</div>
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<i>(Click to enlarge) The ingredients</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZmXVSDfSvQ/UggDOR-m49I/AAAAAAAAEHA/ik0R433Pfc4/s1600/IMG_5788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZmXVSDfSvQ/UggDOR-m49I/AAAAAAAAEHA/ik0R433Pfc4/s320/IMG_5788.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Bottom line</b>. All around a phenomenal quad! Neutral eyeshadows fanatics, you must check out Tom Ford Cocoa Mirage, I insist. </div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-4904959858178130452013-08-18T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-18T08:00:01.145-05:00Beauty Blogazons Weekly Roundup 08/18/2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<ul>
<li><strong>The Convenient Beauty</strong>: <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-shiseido-facial-cottons-versus.html" target="_blank" title="The Convenient Beauty">Shiseido and Cle de Peau cotton pads</a> face-off: which one's superior even better priced than drugstore brands?</li>
<li><strong>Mama Fashionista</strong>: Quinn shares <a href="http://bit.ly/15TXvSn" target="_blank" title="Mama Fashionista">a beauty on a budget find, great for makeup beginners and pros alike</a>!</li>
<li><strong>Adore A Polish</strong>: Kristina's husband takes over the blog with his review of the <a href="http://polishadore.blogspot.com/2013/08/hyd-for-men-review.html" target="_blank" title="Adore A Polish">HYD For Men</a> shaving kit.</li>
<li><strong>Glamorable!</strong>: Do you like flowers? What about nail art? If you answered "Yes" to both, <a href="http://glamorable.blogspot.com/2013/08/mani-monday-summer-flowers-nail-art.html" target="_blank" title="Glamorable!">you might love Anastasia's whimsical manicure</a> featuring bright hand drawn carnations!</li>
<li><strong>Makeup by Kim Porter</strong>: Saving Face with <a href="http://makeupbykim-porter.com/2013/07/review-saving-face-with-mario-badescu-facial-spray-with-aloe-herbs-and-rosewater/" target="_blank" title="Makeup by Kim Porter">Mario Badescu's</a> Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater.</li>
<li><strong>Lola's Secret Beauty Blog</strong>: <a href="http://www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com/2013/08/hourglass-femme-rouge-velvet-creme.html" target="_blank" title="Lola's Secret Beauty Blog">Hourglass Femme Rouge Velvet Creme Lipstick in Edition is a lovely sheer pink lipstick that sure to delight you</a>!</li>
<li><strong>BellBelleBella</strong>: 752% more volume from a mascara? Check out Brittney's review of <a href="http://www.bellbellebella.com/2013/08/752-more-volume-tarte-lights-camera.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="BellBelleBella">Tarte's Lights Camera Flashes mascara</a>.</li>
<li><strong>TheFabZilla</strong>: TheFabZilla does a <a href="http://www.thefabzilla.com/2013/08/face-of-day-featuring-laura-geller.html" target="_blank" title="TheFabZilla">FOTD featuring Laura Geller makeup</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Beautyfiends</strong>: Julia at Beautyfiends is failing at this nail art thing. Check out week 2 of <a href="http://www.beautyfiends.net/pinterest-inspired-nail-challenge-week-2-dots/" target="_blank" title="Beautyfiends">The Pinterest Inspired Nail Art Challenge</a>!</li>
<li><strong>My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog</strong>: Laura shows us the IT Cosmetics Limited Edition 6 Piece <a href="http://www.mynewestaddiction.com/2013/08/it-cosmetics-limited-edition-6-piece.html" target="_blank" title="My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog">Vanity Brush Collection</a>.</li>
<li><strong>ColorMeSoCrazy</strong>: <a href="http://colormesocrazy.blogspot.com/2013/08/blue-eyed-girl-lacquer-elusive-unicorn.html" target="_blank" title="ColorMeSoCrazy">Do you love indie polishes?? Check out this one from Blue-Eyed Girl Lacquer</a>!</li>
<li><strong>Beauty by Miss L</strong>: Check out Miss L´s cool <a href="http://www.beautybymissl.com/2013/08/notd-13082013.html" target="_blank" title="Beauty by Miss L">irregular French manicure</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Daydreaming Beauty</strong>: Another multi-tasking gem from Ole Henriksen! <a href="http://daydreamingbeauty.com/ole-henriksen-perfect-truth-cc-creme/" target="_blank" title="Daydreaming Beauty">Amber looks at Perfect Truth CC cream this week</a>.</li>
<li><strong>The Passenger Element</strong>: <a href="http://thepassengerselement.blogspot.com/2013/08/quick-tip-epielle-facial-masks-big-lots.html" target="_blank" title="The Passenger Element">Quick Tip featuring Epielle Facial Essence Masks at Big Lots</a>!</li>
<li><strong>Beauty by Arielle</strong>: <a href="http://beautybyarielle.blogspot.com/2013/08/5-must-have-it-cosmetics-products-video.html" target="_blank" title="Beauty by Arielle">Arielle's 5 Must Have IT Cosmetics Products in Under 5</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Geniabeme</strong>: Want an <a href="http://www.geniabeme.com/2013/08/sleek-makeup-i-divine-i-candy-review.html" target="_blank" title="Geniabeme">affordable bright eyeshadow palette</a>? Check out Sleek!</li>
<li><strong>Midnight Manicures</strong>: Jeanie shares with you her swatches and review of the <a href="http://www.midnightmanicures.com/2013/08/zoya-cashmere-nail-polish-collection.html" target="_blank" title="Midnight Manicures">Zoya Cashmere Nail Polish Collection</a>. Enter the giveaway to win the collection.</li>
<li><strong>Icy Nails</strong>: Icy Nails shares a review of the <a href="http://www.icynails.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-ageless-derma-stem-cell-and.html" target="_blank" title="Icy Nails">Ageless Derma Stem Cell and Peptide Anti Wrinkle Cream</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Makeup, Life, Love</strong>: <a href="http://www.makeuplifelove.com/2013/08/Tilth-Beauty.html" target="_blank" title="Makeup, Life, Love">All Natural Fountain of Youth</a>.</li>
</ul>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-88686754716091076462013-08-16T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-16T08:00:00.771-05:00Lately<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Life has been full of ups and downs. As I'm battling through the summer schedule and planning for the rest of the year, small little things have lightened up my days and eased my stress. These random happy beats, no matter how trivial, are the highlights lately. <br />
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I love everything green tea, ice cream is no exception.<br />
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Oh and finally, I found Chanel Affinite on Chanel.com and grabbed it within a blink of an eye before it disappeared again. Also, I managed to convince myself that I needed all the shades of Tom Ford blushes. After Frantic Pink came Wicked! While Wicked is another stellar product, Frantic Pink didn't meet the sky-high standards of <a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/02/tom-ford-blushes-swatches-lovelust.html">the other Tom Ford blushes</a>. Still it's a really good easy-to-use blush.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTbnuxf78l4/Ug1WXoQOoNI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/z_6rAkrK_Ho/s1600/IMG_6108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTbnuxf78l4/Ug1WXoQOoNI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/z_6rAkrK_Ho/s640/IMG_6108.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For all you big cosmetic fanatics, here is an elegant piece of <a href="http://bestthingsinbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/08/lessons-learned.html">lessons learned</a> by Charleston Girl of Best Things in Beauty. After years shopping online and offline, I have learned them the hard way. One of my grown-up moments is to stop myself from back-ups and seasonal releases. I also really enjoy reading the comments.<br />
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This <a href="http://healinghamlet.com/healing-stories/letter-to-my-daughter-after-watching-the-bachelor-2/">letter</a> of a mother to her 2-year-old daughter after watching Bachelor. May I also put a capital X on Ready for Love? A stupid dating show under the formate of a talent reality competition. You sure do have professional match makers who help you to win the heart of your Prince Charming. Yes, coaches for hair, makeup, lies, tricks, etc.. I feel pathetic for both the guys and their potential soul mates. Of course, it didn't last 2 episodes. Phew!<br />
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On a more positive note, my new favorite show is <a href="http://dsc.discovery.com/tv-shows/naked-and-afraid">Naked and Afraid</a> on Discovery Channel. I wouldn't last 15 minutes naked, starved, tired and afraid in exotic remote land. Especially no sun screen and bug spray!<br />
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How is your summer going? Feel free to chip in your favorite random things lately. xo</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-68401845585728552942013-08-14T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-14T21:29:11.995-05:00Review: Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Stretch and Original Mascara Versus L'Oreal Voluminous Full Definition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Stretch mascara is one of my all time favorites. I love the brush and the dry formula that holds the curl and lengthens my lashes. When I heard about L'Oreal Voluminous Full Definition sharing similar brush with Eyes to Kill Volume mascara, I jumped to test it out. If L'Oreal Full Definition volumizes my lashes, I can skip that the pricey Giorgio Armani mascaras and get some volume for my lashes. Ultimately, they're owned by the same company L'Oreal right?<br />
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Let's take a look at the brushes.<br />
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<i>From this angle, all three look really similar, even the bristles are spaced the same. </i></div>
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The formula of all three are rather similar but L'Oreal Full Definition is the wettest and Giorgio Armani Stretch is the driest. </div>
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Giorgio Armani Stretch and L'Oreal Full Definition both lengthen my lashes while Giorgio Armani Orignial adds definition to my lashes but nothing else. The first two stay put throughout the day without flakes or smudging while Giorgio Armani Orignial falls out at mid-day. </div>
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All three mascaras hold curls really well but the most effective must be Giorgio Armani Stretch. </div>
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L'Oreal adds no volume as promise. Also, it feels tired at the end of the day. </div>
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Now, let take a look at the brushes one more time. </div>
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<i>I turned the wands 90 degree to show you the slander shape of Armani Stretch. Armani Stretch is 1/2 full around. Armani Original is 3/4 full around. L'Oreal Full Definition is full all around. </i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJMbf6RQWWo/UfB2X6xniuI/AAAAAAAAEBs/RlDrNHgrKEc/s1600/IMG_5932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJMbf6RQWWo/UfB2X6xniuI/AAAAAAAAEBs/RlDrNHgrKEc/s640/IMG_5932.JPG" width="476" /></a></div>
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Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Mascaras are priced at $30 while L'Oreal Voluminous Full Definition mascara is around $7.99. I got mine from Kroger for $5! </div>
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I prefer Giorgio Armani's but L'Oreal is an excellent double. Plus the price is so much friendlier. Have you tried these sisters? Which one is the winner?</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-13751077692373194092013-08-07T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-07T08:00:00.387-05:00Review: Shiseido Facial Cottons Versus Cle de Peau Beaute Le Cotton<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTck7ss9y_0/UfCjILdCwJI/AAAAAAAAECU/HWKG9AXYypE/s1600/IMG_5922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTck7ss9y_0/UfCjILdCwJI/AAAAAAAAECU/HWKG9AXYypE/s640/IMG_5922.JPG" width="640" /></a>How many packs of drugstore cotton pads you ran through per year? I usually do three 80 counts from CVS, Target or HEB. But I don't like them. Harsh and feathery, they aren't sturdy nor gentle enough for my eye areas. So when I received a couple of deluxe samples of Cle de Peau cotton pads, I was over the moon. They're so soft and gentle for my skin. However, they still fail to convince me to splurge. The price just doesn't feel right. Since I've always heard great things about Shiseido cotton pads, I gave it a try and really really love them. I found it very similar to Cle de Peau, even better function-wise and price-wise. My warmest thank you to Gummy of <a href="http://www.gummyvision.com/">GummyVision</a> and Joyce of <a href="http://bronzerbunny.com/blog/2013/6/29/worth-the-splurge-shiseido-facial-cottons">Bronzerbunny</a> for introducing Shiseido facial cottons!! </div>
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<i>Thickness</i></div>
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Today, I bring you the face off of Cle de Peau and Shiseido cotton pads.</div>
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<b>Packaging</b>. Cle de Peau comes in a chic paper box while Shiseido is housed in plasic bag.</div>
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<b>Size</b>. Shiseido pads are smaller in size. Also, CdP has a fancy logo on both sides of the pads. Me, I don't care for it. </div>
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<b>Softness</b>. About the same yet Cle de Peau is a bit more airy while Shiseido is a bit denser. When swipe them on my face, I don't feel the difference even though I <i>know</i> CdP is fluffier. </div>
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<b>Functions</b>. I found them both gentle and excellent for removing makeup. If you want to use it as cotton mask. Shiseido is less feathery and therefore more sturdy when soaked in toner. I also find the feather of CdP pads easy get into my eyes once I tear them in halves to thin them down. </div>
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<b>Price point</b>. Shiseido is more affordable, $9.5 for 165 counts (6 cents/pad) versus CdP $20 for 120 counts (17 cents/pad) or nearly triple the price per pad of Shiseido. It's not either three times large or three times better than Shiseido. </div>
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<i>Tearing the pads in halves. Cle de Peau is more feathery</i></div>
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Shiseido is even more affordable compared to my drugstore pads. It's $9.5 for 165 counts (double to 330 when torn in halves to thin the pads down) versus $3 for 80 counts of HEB pads that untearable to double the use. I usually use 1 pad of Shiseido (as I tear it into 2 halves) or 2 pads of HEB per makeup removal. So in order to have 165 make removals like 1 pack of Shiseido, I need 4 packs of HEB or $12.<br />
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For me it's clear Shiseido is the winner. How about you?</div>
JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181068072400093290.post-83066516083253100102013-08-03T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-03T08:00:04.294-05:00Look: Professional Smiley Makeup<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The motivation was very simple. I need a new professional smiley picture for my profile. My goal is to give an impression of happy, positive and confident attitude. So I opted for neutral makeup with a pop of subtle blue red lipstick. It helps brighten the teeth! Now all I need is a good photographer. But in the mean time, here's what I envision the makeup should turn out. Enjoy! As usual, full makeup list is at the end of the post. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCAsQxGwp_M/UfGNQh0pVCI/AAAAAAAAEDk/gU4rTDNkEXc/s1600/IMG_5844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCAsQxGwp_M/UfGNQh0pVCI/AAAAAAAAEDk/gU4rTDNkEXc/s640/IMG_5844.JPG" width="408" /></a></div>
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<i>Face</i></div>
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<i>Burberry Luminous Foundation Trench 6 (<a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/10/burberry-sheer-luminous-foundation.html">review of Trench 5</a>)</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/06/edward-bess-compact-rouge-in-love.html">Edward Bess Compact Rouge Love Affair </a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/01/edward-bess-all-over-seduction-in.html">Edward Bess All Over Seduction Sunlight</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/03/review-tom-ford-blush-03-flush.html">Tom Ford Cheek Color Flush</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/06/dior-healthy-glow-powder-in-aurora-new.html">Dior Healthy Glow Powder in Aurora</a></i></div>
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<i>Eyes</i></div>
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<i>Nars Pro Prime Eyeshadow Primer</i></div>
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<i>Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad Cocoa Mirage</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/review-sephora-collection-contour-eye.html">Sephora 12 hour wear eyepencil #14 Cocoa</a></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>Dior Extase mascara</i></span></i></div>
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<i>Lips</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://theconvenientbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/10/chanel-rouge-allure-byzantin.html#.UfGPHhwgjEc">Chanel Rouge Allure Byzantine</a> (Fall 2011 Limited Edition)</i></div>
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JoannePhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07987467305035883605noreply@blogger.com0